In this episode we’re joined by the charismatic and creative Austin Sherman, who co-founded a kombucha business from scratch. Like any business owner, he’s seen his share of ups and downs, but they led to an exit to a large multinational company. Austin shares his entire journey building and exiting from Big Easy Bucha.

As a child, Austin was very shy. Over time, he was put into situations that forced him to become comfortable around strangers. His charisma is actually more of a learned behavior, but none the less, he’s been able to use it to his advantage. At one point, after several failed business ventures, Austin started making kombucha at home. This is how Big Easy Bucha started.

Their beginnings were humble, but the dreams and vision were big. When he sold his first bottle, he couldn’t believe someone paid for it. Then it became his first case, then a pallet, then a truckload. Celebrating every small win and cherishing each moment pushed him through to build a successful business in a very competitive market.

Eventually, he was able to get into a buyer meeting at Publix and grew into an additional 1200 stores in a matter of 90 days. He got to a point where he knew he needed additional capital for the equipment and materials required for growth. This excitement led to great conversations with potential investors. The secret to successfully landing these investors was focusing on the value of his business rather than the money.

After the company sold, Austin continued there for six months and then was let go. He’s wired to build things and take risks, so working within a company of a thousand people or more doesn’t fit his speed. Now he has two startups in the works—a tequila company and another business in the chemical industry.